When you think of high-performance vehicles, diesel engines might not be the first to come to mind. However, some diesel-powered cars and trucks are packed with impressive speed, torque, and efficiency that can rival their gasoline counterparts. In this list, we’ll explore 15 diesel vehicles that deliver surprising performance, proving that diesel engines can be both powerful and thrilling.
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BMW 335d
The BMW 335d stands out for its blend of sporty performance and diesel efficiency. With a 3.0-liter inline-six turbocharged diesel engine, it produces 265 horsepower and a remarkable 425 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to sprint from 0-60 mph in just around 5.5 seconds. The 335d’s combination of power and fuel economy makes it one of the most dynamic diesel sedans on the market.
Audi A8 4.2 TDI
The Audi A8 4.2 TDI offers luxury and diesel performance in one package. Its 4.2-liter V8 diesel engine produces 385 horsepower and a staggering 627 lb-ft of torque, making acceleration feel effortless. The A8 TDI is not only fast but also highly fuel-efficient, offering a smooth, luxurious ride without compromising performance.
Mercedes-Benz E350 BlueTEC
The E350 BlueTEC pairs Mercedes’ luxury with a fuel-efficient and torquey diesel engine. Its 3.0-liter V6 diesel generates 210 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, offering smooth acceleration and impressive passing power. This model proves that diesel engines can deliver high-end comfort and performance.
Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel
The Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel is a standout for off-road capability and fuel efficiency. Its 3.0-liter turbo diesel V6 generates 240 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque, giving it plenty of low-end grunt for towing and tackling rugged terrain, while its fuel economy remains one of the best in its class.
Ram 1500 EcoDiesel
The Ram 1500 EcoDiesel is known for its exceptional torque and towing capacity. With a 3.0-liter V6 EcoDiesel engine producing 260 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque, it delivers impressive performance for a light-duty truck. The engine’s fuel efficiency also makes it a popular choice for those looking for both power and practicality.
Volkswagen Touareg V10 TDI
The Volkswagen Touareg V10 TDI was an engineering marvel when it was introduced, with its 5.0-liter V10 turbo diesel engine delivering 310 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. This incredible torque makes it an off-road beast and a towing powerhouse, all while offering surprisingly smooth handling.
Land Rover Range Rover TD6
The Range Rover TD6 brings diesel power to luxury SUVs. Its 3.0-liter turbo diesel engine produces 254 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, making it both powerful and efficient. Whether cruising on the highway or tackling off-road adventures, the TD6 combines performance with Land Rover’s hallmark refinement.
Chevrolet Colorado Duramax
The Colorado Duramax is the perfect mid-size truck for those who need diesel efficiency without sacrificing performance. With a 2.8-liter Duramax diesel engine that provides 181 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, it offers excellent towing capabilities, making it a top choice for compact truck enthusiasts.
BMW X5 xDrive35d
The X5 xDrive35d pairs BMW’s dynamic handling with diesel efficiency. Its 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine produces 255 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, allowing for quick acceleration and effortless towing. It’s an excellent choice for drivers looking for a luxury SUV with a strong performance edge.
Audi Q7 3.0 TDI
Audi’s Q7 3.0 TDI provides both family-friendly space and impressive diesel power. With 240 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque from its 3.0-liter turbo diesel V6, it accelerates smoothly while offering great fuel efficiency for an SUV of its size. It’s a versatile vehicle that’s as capable on highways as it is on rougher terrain.
Porsche Cayenne Diesel
Porsche’s Cayenne Diesel offers an intriguing mix of performance and practicality. Its 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine delivers 240 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, making it quick off the line while remaining highly fuel-efficient. The Cayenne Diesel offers Porsche’s signature handling dynamics, making it a top contender for sporty SUVs.
GMC Sierra 1500 Duramax
The GMC Sierra 1500 Duramax offers a 3.0-liter inline-six turbo diesel engine with 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, providing both impressive towing capacity and great fuel economy. Whether for work or daily driving, this truck delivers diesel power in a refined package.
Jaguar F-Pace 20d
The Jaguar F-Pace 20d stands out for combining diesel efficiency with Jaguar’s signature driving experience. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine produces 180 horsepower and 318 lb-ft of torque, offering solid performance without sacrificing the luxury and sleek design that Jaguar is known for.
Mazda CX-5 Diesel
Mazda’s CX-5 Diesel is a unique offering in the compact SUV market. Powered by a 2.2-liter diesel engine that generates 168 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque, it offers impressive low-end power and fuel efficiency. The CX-5 Diesel balances performance, style, and economy, making it an ideal choice for those who value practicality without compromising on driving dynamics.
Mercedes-Benz GLE 350d
The GLE 350d brings Mercedes luxury into the diesel realm. Powered by a 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine, it delivers 254 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque, offering smooth acceleration and excellent towing capacity. The GLE 350d is both powerful and fuel-efficient, perfect for long-distance driving.
This article originally appeared in MyCarMakesNoise.
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